Interview and words by Kyra-Jade Coombs
Gaupa is a Swedish band described as “progressive stoner rock with doom, folk and psychedelic rock influences”. At first, that’s a lot to digest, however, once you sit down and listen to their music and really take it in, it all comes together.
HEAVY got the chance to interview lead singer Emma Näslund and guitarist Daniel Nygren to chat about their new album MYRIAD which was released recently on November 18.
After making sure I got the pronunciation of MYRIAD correct we got stuck into talking about their new album and what has led them to this chapter of their journey. I was curious to know how they started and what influences are at play behind their music, and I really appreciated their creativity and openness answering my questions. Often I found myself thinking, “Shit, I’m glad I asked that. What an amazing/ unexpected answer”.
It’s been a slow burner starting out for Gaupa. Covid did the Covid thing and cancelled shows left right and centre, making it near on impossible to play for anyone. I’m excited to see what happens with the release of their new album and the chance to perform for fans.
When questioned about where they want to see Gaupa going in the future, their answer was simply, “We just want everyone in the band to be happy and have lots of fun while we create together”. That response made me immediately want to see these guys succeed.
Gaupa strike me as a very organic and creative band that isn’t doing it for anyone else but themselves. I always appreciate that approach because that’s when you get the best music that’s straight from the heart and not accommodating what you ‘think’ people want.
MYRIAD is best turned up full blast, so you can really enjoy Emma’s beautiful and haunting vocals, perfectly accompanied by the band to create a whole experience for you. It’s very emotion-driven music, and these sweet Swede’s sure know how to write a song and rock the fuck out. If you like your stoner rock with a touch of doom and psychedelic rock – this album is for you, sink your teeth into MYRIAD.
Gaupa have plans to tour Europe in May 2023 for any of our readers over that side of the world, get out there and support them! Hopefully that means they will get the chance to come to Australia soon and bring their music to our shores for us to enjoy.
Have a listen to the interview in its entirety below. There are plenty of laughs and some great stories told. I have to say that I really enjoyed getting to know Emma and Daniel, we managed to cover heaps of interesting topics. I certainly learned a lot about the world of Gaupa.
Now it’s your turn to have a peek inside, enjoy!
